Go Back

Chili Macaroni Casserole

Chili Macaroni Casserole is a warm, simple, and filling one-dish meal that combines chili flavors with macaroni and cheese, perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust for spice preference
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup water

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is cooked through. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the chili mixture and mix well.
Baking
  1. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Top with chopped green onions, sour cream, or extra cheese. Consider pairing with crusty bread.